No bail for man in fatal hit-and-run in Rogers Park

December 24, 2009

Bail was denied today for Ralph Eubanks, accused of driving under the influence of drugs when he slammed into a mother and her young son as they crossed a quiet street in Rogers Park, killing the woman and seriously injuring the boy.

Eubanks then sped off, leaving Maria Worthon, 49, and her son Jeremia lying in the road, officials said.

Eubanks, 30, is charged with first-degree murder, aggravated driving under the influence and leaving the scene of a fatal accident. Prosecutors said today in court that traces of cocaine and ecstasy were found in his system after the crash.

During a bond hearing today, an attorney for Eubanks said his family, who came to the hearing, wanted to say that "our prayers go out to the Worthons and her son."

Jeremia was taken to a hospital in critical condition. His family said he had a broken leg and was breathing with the aid of a respirator.

Worthon's family said police estimated the car was traveling as fast as 80 mph.

About a minute before the collision, prosecutors said in court today, police had stopped Eubanks for driving without his headlights on. He took off before the officers could complete the stop, they said.

Eubanks was taken into custody in the 6400 block of North Newgard Avenue, a little more than a half-mile south of the crash site, police said.